On August 22, 1776, the British army and navy launched a stunning invasion of Brooklyn, as part of their global military campaign to defeat George Washington’s army in New York City. Historian David McCullough vividly described the scene in his book “1776,” noting that more than 90 vessels filled the Narrows of New York Harbor as British forces prepared for battle. Earlier in the summer, the British had stationed some 400 ships off Staten Island in preparation for their assault.
The British forces landed at Gravesend Bay, in what is now the southwestern corner of Brooklyn, with waves of soldiers in red coats and polished bayonets advancing onto the adjacent plain. By noon, an army of 15,000 men and 40 pieces of artillery had assembled in perfect formation. Just five days later, on August 27, the British decisively defeated Washington’s forces in the Battle of Brooklyn Heights, also known as the Battle of Long Island.
Despite suffering 1,000 casualties compared to the British loss of 400 men, Washington managed a miraculous evacuation of his remaining troops across the East River to Manhattan on August 29. The British occupation of New York City began the following month, as American forces were forced to flee from both Brooklyn and Manhattan. The British were awed by the wealth of the American people and the abundance of resources they possessed.
During the occupation, the British imposed martial law on the city, but were surprised by the luxurious furnishings and possessions they found in American homes. McCullough’s account paints a vivid picture of the contrast between the American rebels and the British soldiers of the most powerful empire in the world. Despite the initial setbacks, Washington’s resilience and strategic thinking enabled the Continental Army to continue fighting for independence.
The stormy weather on the eve of the invasion of Brooklyn seemed like a premonition of the dark times ahead in the American Revolution. McCullough describes the violent storm that struck the area, with lightning striking houses and killing soldiers camped by the East River. The miraculous escape of Washington’s troops across the East River under the cover of darkness on August 29 was a pivotal moment that saved the Continental Army and the patriot cause.
The year 1776 holds a special significance in American history, marking a period of struggle and perseverance in the fight for independence. Despite the initial defeats and setbacks, Washington’s leadership and the determination of his troops ultimately led to the success of the American Revolution. The events of August 22, 1776, in Brooklyn were just the beginning of a long and difficult campaign that would test the resolve of the American people and their desire for freedom.
